Obituary for Mr. Richard J. “Rich” Cunningham Sr. UTICA – Mr. Richard J. “Rich” Cunningham, Sr., age 59, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 18, 2018 in the comfort of his home. Born in New Hartford on April 20, 1959, Richard was the son of the late Robert J. “Bob” Jr. and Rita J. (Sbarra) Cunningham. He attended Conkling Elementary School and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1978.
Rich shared in a relationship with Kathy Gelfuso, and to that union came the blessing of their son, Richie. Rich began his working career at Dodge Graphic Press and later moved to Brodock Press where he enjoyed 25 years of employment as a foreman. Lastly, he worked at the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) for over 5 years as a warehouse man.
Although Rich was a private man, he was sociable, generous, and a friend to many. He was proud of his Italian heritage and it could been seen in his love of cooking. He had a fondness for his pets, and they were his priority.
He leaves his black cat “Black Bear” to the care of his son. His beloved feline is a bit skittish, but he has a new home. With a smile on his face, Rich imparted words of wisdom, especially to his son, and he was a blessed grandpa to his granddaughter.
She loved him and she remembered the things he gave her and the special places they went. Rich always honored the holidays, family birthdays, and special occasions. In his younger years, he was an active outdoorsman, hunter, and fisherman.
His great achievement in life was raising his son to be a good man, and even greater, seeing his son become a great dad to his daughter Gianna Mia. He knew the Lord and his spirituality grew as life passed. He wore a Rosary and a scapular around his neck as a sign of faith, hope, and love of the Lord.
Richard is survived by his son Richard J. “Rich” Cunningham, Jr. and Jennifer Files; Rich Jr.’s mother Kathy Gelfuso; his granddaughter, Gianna Mia and her mom Sara Berg; his brother and sister-in-law, Robert J. “Bob” III and Terri Cunningham and his nephew Rob Cunningham IV. He also leaves his uncle and aunts, Vincent “Butch” and Donna Sbarra, and Louise Sbarra; and many beloved cousins. He had the best of times with his friends, Fred Dunham, Russ Spina, Lance, Alex “B” Almas, and Rich Scarafile; they were a group of guys who really cared about each other.
He was predeceased by his aunts and uncles, Louis Sbarra, Concetta “Jessie” and Joseph V. Maggio, and Rose and Peter Cerminaro. The family is grateful to Rich’s neighbors, Russ and Freddy who have been so helpful in caring for his wellbeing. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, October 1, at 1:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church officiated by Rev.
Mark Kaminiski. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of mass. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mr. Richard J. “Rich” Cunningham Sr. please visit our Sympathy Store.
Previous Events Funeral Service , OCT 1.
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